This Chicken Alfredo Broccoli & Cheese Stuffed Shells recipe is a delightful and comforting meal that’s perfect for gatherings or a special family dinner. Enjoy!
Ingredients:
- 1 box of jumbo pasta shells
- 3 large chicken breasts, cooked and cut or shredded
- 1 bag of shredded cheese (mozzarella or a blend of Italian cheeses)
- 2 jars of Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 bags of frozen broccoli florets (about 20 oz)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)
- Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preparing the Shells:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions until they are al dente.
- Drain the shells and set them aside to cool. It’s a good idea to drizzle a little olive oil over them to prevent sticking.
2. Cooking the Chicken:
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- In a large skillet, heat one tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Cook the chicken breasts until they are no longer pink in the center and have a golden-brown crust, about 6-7 minutes per side. Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the chicken.
- Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. Then, cut or shred it into bite-sized pieces.
3. Preparing the Broccoli:
- Cook the frozen broccoli according to the package instructions, typically by steaming or boiling. Drain and set aside.
4. Making the Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded or chopped chicken, cooked and chopped broccoli, half of the shredded cheese, and one jar of Alfredo sauce.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything until it’s well combined.
5. Filling the Shells:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spread a thin layer of Alfredo sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Choose a size that accommodates most of the stuffed shells.
- Carefully stuff each pasta shell with the chicken and broccoli mixture and place them in the baking dish.
- Pour the remaining jar of Alfredo sauce over the top of the stuffed shells. Make sure to cover them evenly with the sauce.
- Sprinkle the rest of the shredded cheese on top for a deliciously cheesy finish.
6. Baking:
- If desired, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top for an extra layer of flavor.
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the dish is heated through.
7. Serving:
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if you like, for a pop of color and freshness.
- Let the dish cool slightly before serving, as the stuffed shells will be very hot when they come out of the oven.
Here are some additional tips to help you make the most of your Chicken Alfredo Broccoli & Cheese Stuffed Shells:
- Flavor Variation: Consider adding extra seasoning to the chicken, such as Italian seasoning, garlic powder, or paprika, to enhance the overall taste.
- Customize with Herbs: Add fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or even thyme to the filling mixture for added aroma and flavor.
- Prevent Pasta Breakage: Be cautious not to overcook the pasta shells. Cook them just until they are al dente to prevent them from becoming too soft, making them easier to handle and fill without breaking.
- Mozzarella vs. Parmesan: Use mozzarella cheese for that gooey, melty texture and top with Parmesan for a deliciously crispy, golden-brown finish.
- Make-Ahead Option: This dish can be prepared in advance. You can assemble the stuffed shells ahead of time and refrigerate them. When you’re ready to bake, simply pop them in the oven.
- Sauce Consistency: If the Alfredo sauce seems too thick, you can thin it out with a bit of chicken broth or milk to achieve the desired consistency for both the filling and the top layer.
- Vegetable Options: While broccoli is classic in this dish, you can experiment with other vegetables like spinach, roasted red peppers, or even sun-dried tomatoes for added depth of flavor.
- Leftovers: These stuffed shells make great leftovers! Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for a few days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave for a quick and delicious meal later.
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe instead of jumbo shells?
A: Absolutely! While jumbo shells are commonly used for stuffed pasta dishes, you can explore other options like manicotti tubes or even large pasta shells that can be filled with the chicken Alfredo mixture.
Q: How do I prevent the pasta shells from sticking together?
A: After cooking the pasta shells, drizzle a bit of olive oil over them and gently toss to coat. This will help prevent them from sticking together while you prepare the filling.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, this dish can be prepared ahead. You can assemble the stuffed shells and store them in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, simply add the sauce and cheese, then bake as directed in the recipe.
Q: What can I serve with Chicken Alfredo Broccoli & Cheese Stuffed Shells?
A: A side salad with a light vinaigrette, some garlic bread, or steamed vegetables make great accompaniments to balance the richness of the dish.
Q: Can I freeze the stuffed shells?
A: Yes, these stuffed shells can be frozen. Prepare the dish as instructed, but before baking, cover the dish tightly with foil and freeze. When ready to cook, allow the dish to thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as usual.
Q: How can I make a vegetarian version of this recipe?
A: To make a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and use additional vegetables like sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach as the filling. You can also add vegetarian chicken substitutes or tofu for protein.
Q: Can I use homemade Alfredo sauce instead of store-bought?
A: Yes, homemade Alfredo sauce can be used. It can be a delicious alternative, providing a fresher and more customizable taste.
Q: What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
A: Reheat leftovers in the oven at a low temperature to maintain the texture and avoid sogginess, or you can microwave individual portions for a quick meal.
